Wrong Women: The Hidden History of Monto, Dublin’s Forgotten Red Light District

Wrong Women by Dr. Caroline West is a groundbreaking feminist history book that delves into Europe’s largest red-light district and the lives of the women who worked there. Monto, located in Dublin’s north inner city, was the epicenter of sex work from the 1860s to the 1920s, with up to 1,600 sex workers active at any one time. Despite the district’s notorious history, little is known about the aftermath of the lives of these women.

The Birth and Growth of Monto

Hidden in the heart of Dublin, Monto was not just a geographical area; it was a place of moral segregation. In the Victorian era, prostitution was seen as necessary evil, hidden from public view. Monto emerged as a center of entertainment, where ‘respectable women’ were shielded from the ‘irrepressible evil’ of prostitutes.

During this time, the Georgian buildings in Monto’s wealthier sections housed madams who advertised their brothels with fancy names displayed in fanlights. The front parlors of these establishments served as luxurious meeting grounds for clients, where they could enjoy food, drink, and music before moving to a room for intimate services.

“The madams often rotated their houses, giving them a fresh look and grand reopening parties. The women inside were meticulously dressed up, showcasing their wealth and style for potential clients.”

The Material World of Monto

Women in Monto used luxury items to project a sense of wealth and allure. Successful madams, like May Oblong, wore expensive jewelry and groomed themselves meticulously to attract clients. These visible displays of wealth were both a tool for business and a survival strategy in a highly competitive environment.

“May Oblong often sat outside her shop, adorned with a well-groomed appearance and delicate jewelry, such as a gold cameo brooch and beautiful earrings.”

Survival and Risk in Monto

Many women turned to sex work as a temporary solution to financial hardships, hoping to save money or escape difficult circumstances. However, the risks were significant, including robbery and alcohol addiction, which perpetuated a cycle of exploitation.

“Some women managed to leave with savings, while others struggled with addictions and poverty.”

Contraception methods in Monto ranged from traditional to controversial. Feminine hygiene products, natural spermicides like vinegar, and early condoms were commonly used to prevent pregnancy. More radical solutions, such as inserting lemon juice into the vagina, were also employed for birth control.

The Dark Side of Monto

As women aged and lost their youthful appeal, their risk of violence and abuse increased. The desire for young, flawless skin in the sex trade led to harsh treatment of older women. Syphilis was also prevalent, exacerbating their vulnerability.

“Once a woman’s beauty faded, she faced increased risks of violence and potentially long-term institutionalization in places like Magdalene Laundries.”

Monto: A Community of Women

Monto was more than just a brothel district; it was a community of women who formed a network of support and defense. This network helped protect women from predators and provided a sense of belonging in a hostile environment.

One family story recalls a time when women in Monto confronted a man looking for children to buy for sex. When authorities failed to intervene, the women fought back, highlighting their resilience and determination.

“The women of Monto did not hesitate to take matters into their own hands, protecting their own and showing the world their strength.”

Legacies of Monto

For some women, Monto offered liberation and independence. For others, it was a path to tragedy. The impact of Monto on the lives of women in Ireland is profound, and it remains an important chapter in the history of female empowerment and exploitation.

“Monto’s history is complex, reflecting both the liberation sought by many women and the violent reality they often faced.”

Upcoming Book: ‘Wrong Women’

Dr. Caroline West’s book, Wrong Women: Selling Sex in Monto, Dublin’s Forgotten Red Light District, is set to be published on February 20, 2025, by ERIU. This in-depth exploration of Monto promises to shed light on a neglected chapter of Irish history.

Support and Resources

If you or someone you know has been affected by issues discussed in this article, please seek help from available resources.

Visit www.rte.ie/helplines for more information.

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